Your wildlife photography guide.
Explore the giant armadillo in detail, study its behavior, prepare your shots.
Where to observe and photograph the giant armadillo in the wild
Learn where and when to spot the giant armadillo in the wild, how to identify the species based on distinctive features, and what natural environments it inhabits. The WildlifePhotographer app offers tailored photography tips that reflect the giant armadillo’s behavior, helping you capture better wildlife images. Explore the full species profile for key information including description, habitat, active periods, and approach techniques.
Giant armadillo
Scientific name: Priodontes maximus
IUCN Status: Vulnerable
Family: DASYPODIDAE
Group: Mammals
Sensitivity to human approach: Suspicious
Minimum approach distance: 20 m
Rut period: March to June
Gestation: 5 à 6 mois
Births: November to January
Habitat:
Tropical forests and savannas of South America, wooded areas and grasslands
Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.
Identification and description:
The Giant Armadillo is the largest of the armadillos, found primarily in the tropical forests of South America, notably in Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina. It typically measures between 1.5 and 2 meters in length, including its tail, and can weigh up to 60 kg. Its fur is rough and brown, and it has a hard shell, typical of armadillos, which serves as protection against predators. The Giant Armadillo is primarily nocturnal and terrestrial, feeding mainly on insects, worms, fruits, and roots. While it is an excellent burrower, it is threatened by illegal hunting and habitat destruction, leading to a decline in its population.
Recommended lens:
200 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.
Photography tips:
Photographing the giant armadillo can be a challenge due to its nocturnal activity. A telephoto lens is essential for discreet shots, especially at dusk or at night. Be discreet and respect its safety distance. Capture its movements when it is searching for insects or moving silently through dense vegetation.
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